Forty-seven students from Nadi have completed a leadership training program led by police officers, equipping them for future roles in their communities.
These students, representing various schools from Nadi and Sigatoka, participated in a comprehensive two-day Blue Light leadership training and practical skills development program held at Korovuto College in Nadi.
The initiative was organized by Blue Light, a registered charity in New Zealand that works in partnership with law enforcement to provide a variety of youth-oriented programs and activities. Blue Light aims to decrease the risk of youth becoming either offenders or victims of crime while promoting stronger relationships between law enforcement, young people, their parents, and the wider community.
On Wednesday, the 47 students celebrated their graduation from the program.
Divisional Police Commander West, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Iakobo Vaisewa, urged the students to act as catalysts for positive change in their schools and communities.
“Remember everything you have learned during this course. We believe in your potential as young leaders,” SSP Vaisewa stated. He highlighted the importance of understanding the risks some of their peers face, including involvement in drug abuse, sexual offenses, assault, burglary, and theft.
He cautioned them against succumbing to negative influences. “You still have the opportunity to choose the right path,” he said, emphasizing self-worth and the significance of their choices.
“Recognize your potential and know the value of your decisions. Regardless of what others say about you, be aware of your capabilities. You were selected for this program to become agents of change,” he concluded.